Usage:
Introduction
The 8T8697 Electronic Control Analyzer Programmer (ECAP) is a flexible tool with the capability to service a variety of electronic controls.
The basic ECAP is furnished with the utility programs for selecting Metric or English display units and providing basic communication abilities.
It is designed to handle specific service needs as they are identified.
NOTE: This instruction will cover only the basic ECAP and it's general use. Each service program may require a separate instruction and will be referenced when needed.
Specifications
Executive Program Version: 1.1
INPUT Power Required: External power source 7 to 40 Vdc (0.6 amps @ 12V).
Operating Temperature: -12° to 55° C (10° to 131° F)
Storage Temperature: -20° to 60° C (-4° to 140° F)
Dimensions: 394 mm (15.5") X 311 mm (12.2") X 172 mm (6.8")
Weight: 3.15 kg (7 lb)
NOTE: The ECAP has been designed to withstand normal usage and handling when used in a field or a shop environment.
However, some of the components are more sensitive to abuse than others and to ensure the best possible service life:
- * Do not leave the ECAP exposed to direct sunlight when being used in, or stored in, a vehicle compartment.
- * Do not expose to excessive vibration or shock.
- * Do not expose to excessive moisture.
- * Do not expose the keyboard or LCD to any object that could puncture or scratch the plastic surface.
- * Keep the Port connectors clean and free of debris.
- * Clean the keyboard and LCD with a mild window cleaner and a soft towel or cloth.
- * Do not expose to excessive vibration or shock.
Features
Power-up Self Tests: Power-up self tests are run automatically each time you supply power to the ECAP.
During the test cycle, the ECAP first initializes and then tests itself for proper operation.
Display Screen: Eight line X 80 column Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) used to display all information and messages.
Keyboard: An 84 key membrane style keyboard, in standard typewriter layout, provides full alphabetic, numeric, and special character input.
Several dedicated function keys are included to simplify use.
Communications: The RS-485 Port 1 is used for RS-485 communications with electronic controls or computers.
Refer to Port 1 RS-485 Connector Pin Definitions in this instruction.
The RS-232C Port 2 is used for RS-232C communications with moderns, printers, computers or controls.
Refer to Port 2 RS-232C Connector Pin Definitions in this instruction.
Expansion Module: Port 3 is used for temporary addition of application programs with input and output needs not handled by Communication Ports 1 and 2.
These may include special signal conditioning or data inputs, service programs, or data storage.
Service Program: The ECAP is designed to service a variety of electronic controls.
Additional service programs can be permanently added to the ECAP by installing them onto the circuit board inside the ECAP.
Refer to Service Program Module Installation in this instruction.
Connectors and Controls
Power & RS-485 Connector: The ECAP communicates with electronic controls and receives power through the connector labelled PORT 1.
The cable used for this connection will depend upon the specific service program you are using.
The connector is keyed to insure proper installation of the cable and is threaded to secure it in place.
RS-232C Connector: The ECAP communicates with modems, printers, and other computers through the connector labelled PORT 2.
The cable used for this connection will depend upon the specific service program you are using.
Expansion Module Connector: The connector labelled PORT 3 is used to add modules which expand the capabilities of the ECAP.
The modules and their use will depend upon the specific service program you are using.
The connector includes four screw posts to secure modules in place.
Keyboard: An 84 Key keyboard, in standard typewriter layout, is used for all user entry and control.
Using the ECAP
Power-up Self Tests
The power-up self test runs automatically each time you apply power to the ECAP.
This test can operate in one of two modes, Normal or Optional.
Each test checks all internal systems of the ECAP but is different in the completeness and the amount of time to perform the test:
Normal: This test runs approximately two to three seconds and is sufficient for normal operation of the ECAP.
Optional: This test runs approximately ten to twelve seconds and should be used periodically to perform a complete test of the ECAP.
To perform the Optional self test:
- * Press and hold any key on the keyboard while applying power to the ECAP.
During the test cycle the special information listed below is displayed on the LCD:
- * ECAP serial number
- * ECAP Executive Program Version number
- * System test indicator
- * ECAP Executive Program Version number
The system test indicator shows test progress by a changing test number and the message text, alternating between normal and reverse screen characters.
When all of the self tests are completed the ECAP displays the main menu. This menu will include all of the service programs which have been installed and are available for use.
NOTE: If the self test fails, the ECAP displays a diagnostic message on the LCD (if the LCD is functioning).
Refer to System Error Messages in this instruction for error message interpretation.
LCD Viewing Angle
Characters displayed on the LCD will appear clearly and well defined in only a limited angle of view.
Adjustment of the viewing angle is accomplished using SHIFT-UP arrow or SHIFT-DOWN arrow keys.
Refer to Special Keys in this instruction.
SHIFT-UP arrow changes the angle for best viewing when looking directly into the LCD.
SHIFT-DOWN arrow changes the angle for best viewing from below the LCD.
LCD Back Light
The LCD can be lit (illuminated) from behind for use in low or no light conditions.
When used in areas with sufficient lighting, the back lighting can be shut off. This improves the contrast in good lighting conditions and extends the life of the back light element.
When the ECAP is first powered-up the back light will be OFF.
To turn the back light ON, press the SHIFT and the LEFT arrow keys.
To turn the back light OFF, press the SHIFT and the RIGHT arrow keys.
LCD Message Areas
Several areas of the LCD are used for particular types of message information.
The first line of the LCD is used for titles and status messages.
Titles will tell you what the display is for or what it is doing.
Status messages may be included to inform you of a special operation or mode and will usually be highlighted in reverse screen characters.
The last line of the LCD is used for help, prompt, informational, and ECAP system error messages.
Some help messages are provided by default, others are given when you ask for them.
Prompt messages are given when the ECAP needs more input or wants you to confirm something.
Informational messages are given when you need more information; such as what keys are valid at that time.
System error messages appear when something is not going well with the ECAP or the controls that it is connected to.
Screen Cursor
The screen cursor is a block of one or more reverse screen characters used to indicate the current selected item or parameter on a screen. Such as item numbers from a menu or parameters to be changed.
Special Keys
Several keys on the keyboard, shown above, have special functions to make the ECAP easier to use.
TAB: Press TAB key (1) to send a horizontal tab character to the ECAP and move the cursor to the next tab stop.
NOTE: Refer to the Special Instruction, included with each updated service program, to determine if this key should be used.
CTRL: Hold down CTRL key (2) and press any other key to send control codes to the ECAP.
Control codes may be used by some service programs to give special instructions to the ECAP.
When you are directed to use a control code, the description will appear as CTRL-(other key).
CTRL-(other key)
Example: CTRL-Z: Means to hold CTRL key (2) while pressing Z key (3).
CAP LOCK: Press CAP LOCK (4) once to cause the alphabetic keys to send all uppercase characters to ECAP, (A,B,C,D,...,Z).
A message will appear on the 1st line of the LCD informing you that CAP LOCK is ON.
Press CAP LOCK key (4) again to cause the alphabetic keys to send all lowercase again, (a,b,c,d,...z).
A message will appear on the 1st line of the LCD informing you that CAP LOCK is OFF.
NOTE: Refer to the Special Instruction, included with each service program, to determine if uppercase or lowercase letters should be used.
SHIFT: Hold SHIFT key (5) and press any other key to send upper-case characters, special symbols on the top of two-character keys, or special codes for the top row of function keys, to the ECAP.
When you are directed to use a shifted key, the description will appear as SHIFT-(other key).
SHIFT-(other key)
Example: SHIFT-F1 means to hold SHIFT key (5) while pressing F1 key (6).
REPEAT: Press Repeat key (7) when you want to rapidly repeat key entries to the ECAP.
When you are directed to use a repeated key, the description will appear as REPEAT-(other key).
Repeat-(other key)
Example: Repeat-A means to hold Repeat key (7) while pressing A key (8).
RETURN: RETURN key (9) is generally used to confirm selections.
Example: On menus, when the cursor is on the menu item you want, press RETURN key (9) to select that item and cause the action for it to take place.
PREVIOUS SCREEN: Press PREVIOUS SCREEN (10) to return to the display you were viewing previously.
This key is your way of stopping the current display and returning to the previous activity.
MAIN MENU: Press MAIN MENU key (11) to return to the main (original) menu displayed at power-up time.
This key is your way of stopping the current display and starting over from the main menu.
HELP: Press HELP key (12) for a help message about the current display you are viewing.
Different messages will be provided for each application and will tell you what you need to do or what the ECAP is doing.
SHIFT-HELP: Press SHIFT key (5) and HELP key (12) for a more detailed help message.
This second level of help provides information specific to what you are doing or what you can do.
SHIFT-LEFT ARROW: Press SHIFT key (5) and LEFT arrow key (13) to turn the LCD back light on.
SHIFT-RIGHT ARROW: Press SHIFT key (5) and RIGHT arrow key (14) to turn the LCD back light off.
SHIFT-UP ARROW, SHIFT-DOWN ARROW: Press SHIFT key (5) and either UP arrow key (15) or DOWN arrow key (16) to adjust the LCD viewing angle for a better display contrast.
Each time this combination is pressed, the viewing angle will be changed by one small step.
Arrow Keys
ARROW(S): Press arrow keys (13), (14), (15), or (16) to move between areas on the display.
The movement is in the direction of the arrow's point.
These keys are generally used to move the cursor to the item you wish to act upon, such as moving to a item in a menu.
F1 through F6 Keys
F6: Press F6 key (17) for a copy of the text, shown on the LCD, to be sent to a printer.
NOTE: The printer must be connected to PORT 2. Refer to Utility Functions, in this instruction, to set up PORT 2 for your printer.
F1-F5: The remaining top row functions (F1-F5) keys (18) may have functions assigned to them by some service programs.
NOTE: Refer to the Special Instruction, included with each service program module, for a description of the F1-F5 key functions.
Numeric Keys
NUMERIC KEYS: The numeric keys, shown above, are used to enter numeric values. Or in menus and display programs, to directly select an item or display option that you want.
Example: On menus, if you want to choose item four out of a list of five items, press the 4 key once instead of pressing the DOWN arrow key three times.
Troubleshooting and Problem Solving
Problem Solving
This section describes what to do if you have a problem with the ECAP.
A problem checklist is provided to help identify simple problems that can be corrected.
NOTE: Problems that are not corrected, when using the problem checklist, should be directed to Caterpillar Service Technology Group. Refer to Service, in this instruction.
Example: The display screen is blank:
- * Make sure there is power to the ECAP.
- * Make sure the viewing angle is properly adjusted for your line of sight to the display.
If not, try adjusting the viewing angle in both directions.
Example: The display screen is difficult to read, characters are dark or fuzzy:
- * Make sure the viewing angle is properly adjusted for your line of sight to the display.
- * If not, adjust the viewing angle (in both directions) until corrected.
Example: The display screen shows the title and message lines for the main menu but nothing else:
- * One or more of the Service Program Modules may not have been installed.
- * Refer to Service Program Module Installation in this instruction.
ECAP System Error Message
The ECAP system error message is displayed as a result of a major malfunction in the ECAP.
Due to the severity of this error, the ECAP is not able to recover on it's own and must be restarted.
- * Press the RETURN key to restart.
This messages will generally appear on the bottom line of the LCD but may appear on other lines depending on when the error occurs.
NOTE: If this message repeatedly displays, for the same operation, contact the Caterpillar Service Technology Group for information on the required service. Refer to Service in this instruction.
Special Notes
This error message is displayed when there is something wrong with a service program module installed in the ECAP.
The program module name shown in the message is the name that would have been shown in the main menu for that module.
You will need to remove the program module, that has the error, and replace it.
Refer to Service Program Module Installation in this instruction.
Utility Functions
A set of utility functions is included with the ECAP to enhance its use as a service tool.
These functions are accessed as a menu item from the Main Menu.
Refer to Utility Functions Screen Map, in this instruction.
The map shows the relationship of these functions and their display screens.
The map can be used to find out where the function you are using is in relationship to other functions and how to access a specified function.
Main Menu
When power is applied to the ECAP it will at first display an identifying title screen. It will then present the main menu listing all of the major functions provided by the service program modules installed.
One of these will be the Utility Functions.
Select it from the menu listing using the UP arrow key, Down arrow key, or type in the item number and press the RETURN key.
Utility Functions Menu
This menu provides access to all of the utility functions.
Communication Options:
- * Function(s) for changing the Port #2 Setup
- * Function(s) for Terminal Emulation (setting ECAP to talk to another computer)
- * Function(s) for changing the Input and Output Assignments of the ECAP.
- * Function(s) for Terminal Emulation (setting ECAP to talk to another computer)
PWM Sensor: Function for displaying the frequency and duty cycle of a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal.
SPM Version Numbers: Function for displaying a list of Service Program Module (SPM) names and version numbers that have been installed in the 8T8697 ECAP.
Change from METRIC to ENGLISH display units: Allows you to indicate to service programs whether you want values displayed in Metric or English units.
Example: You want to find out more about a menu item before confirming it with RETURN.
Press SHIFT-HELP.
A help message will be displayed on the last line of the LCD.
Communication Options Menu
This menu provides access to functions for setting up and communicating between the ECAP and other computer devices.
These functions include:
Port #2 Setup: Function for changing the setup parameters of Port #2: (baud rate, Stop bits, data bits, parity, and mode).
Terminal Emulation: Function for communicating between the ECAP and other computers or controls through Port #2.
Input and Output Assignments: Function for changing the assignments of source of input and destination of output for the ECAP.
Example: If you want to communicate with another computer connected to Port #2:
Select item 2 by pressing the DOWN arrow key once or by entering 2.
The block cursor will move to item 2.
- * Confirm your selection by pressing RETURN.
Port #2 Setup
This function is used to change the setup parameters of Communications Port #2.
Baud Rate: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, or 19200
Stop Bits: 1 or 2
Parity: None, even, odd, force zero, or force one
Data Bits: 5, 6, 7, or 8
Mode: Normal, Auto Echo, Local loopback, or Remote loopback
NOTE: Normal or Auto Echo will be the only modes you will want to use. Loopback modes are for testing purposes only.
To make changes to Port #2 parameters:
- * Move to the parameter's location using the Up, Down, Left, and Right arrow keys.
The selected parameter will be highlighted in reverse screen characters.
Step through the available values one at a time by pressing the RETURN key until the one you want is shown.
Use the same procedure for any other changes you want to make.
When all the Port #2 parameters are ready, move the cursor to the "Change to these values" parameter and press RETURN.
This will confirm the changes and program Port #2 with the new values.
If you change your mind and do not want to program the changes:
- * Press the PREVIOUS SCREEN or MAIN MENU keys.
Example: If you want to change the baud rate from 1200 to 9600:
- * Move to the baud rate parameter by pressing the RIGHT arrow key once.
- * Press the RETURN key 3 times to step to the new baud rate.
- * Move to the "Change to these values" field by pressing the LEFT arrow key once.
- * Press the RETURN key 3 times to step to the new baud rate.
- * Press the RETURN key.
Communications Port #2 will be programmed for the new baud rate and you will return to the utility function menu.
Terminal Emulation
This function allows you to use the ECAP as a terminal for communicating with a computer.
NOTE: Before starting emulation you should be sure that the communications setup for Port #2 matches that of the computer system you are connecting to.
NOTE: To exit Terminal Emulation you must press SHIFT-PREVIOUS SCREEN or SHIFT-MAIN MENU keys.
This is to allow the terminal emulation function to see these keys and not pass them on to the computer system connected to the ECAP.
When you first enter the Terminal Emulation mode, the screen is blank; except for an informational message on the bottom line of the LCD telling you how to exit emulation.
In Terminal Emulation mode the program takes each character that you enter when you press a key and sends it to the computer system you are connected to.
Characters that are received from the computer system are displayed on the LCD.
Example: You can use the ECAP in Terminal Emulation mode to access data you need on a remote computer.
Input and Output Assignments
This function is used to change the assignments of source of input and destination of output (I/O) for the ECAP.
Input refers to key entries that would normally be made on the keyboard.
Input sources: Keyboard or Port 2 Output refers to the text that would normally be displayed on the LCD.
Output destinations: LCD, Port #2, or LCD and Port #2.
To make changes to the I/O assignments:
- * Move to the input or output parameters using the UP arrow and DOWN arrow keys.
The selected parameter will be highlighted in reverse screen characters.
- * Step through the available values one at a time by pressing the RETURN key until the one you want is shown.
Use the same procedure for any other changes you want to make.
- * When the assignments are ready, move the cursor to the parameter. "Change to these assignments" and press RETURN.
This will confirm the changes and make the new assignments effective immediately.
If you change your mind and do not want to program the changes, press the PREVIOUS SCREEN or MAIN MENU keys.
PWM Sensor
This function is used to measure the frequency and duty cycle of a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal.
This capability can be used to verify or diagnose the operation of some of Caterpillar's sensors and actuators.
NOTE: See the troubleshooting guide for the equipment you are using to determine when to use this function.
This function is capable of displaying frequencies from 1 Hz to 1100 Hz with duty cycles ranging from 4 to 96 percent.
Acceptable input signal levels to the 8C9800 PWM Signal Adapter range from 4 to 15 Volts peak positive voltage.
The LCD will display the values of frequency and duty cycle unless the values are out of range.
Signals with pulse widths that are too wide will cause a message on the LCD and values to be shown as -------
Signals with pulse widths that are too narrow will cause a message on the LCD and values to be shown as +++++++.
The Duty Cycle of the signal is represented as a number of percent of time that the signal is at a high (+4 to +15 volts) level versus the time that the signal is at a low (0 volts) level.
The Frequency of a signal is found by determining the period of time that the signal takes to go through one cycle of low to high and back to low again.
The number of times a signal's period can occur in one second is its frequency.
SPM Version Numbers
This function is used to display the version numbers of the service program modules installed in the 8T8697 ECAP that you are using.
The function searches through the installed modules and displays their names and version numbers in a list.
The LCD can display six lines from the list at one time.
If the list is longer than six lines, use the UP arrow and DOWN arrow keys to move up and down through the list.
Each time one of the arrow keys is pressed, the list position is shifted one line.
Metric or English Display Units
This function is used to select between Metric and English display units.
Example: Change from METRIC to ENGLISH display units.
- * Select item 4 by pressing the DOWN arrow key three times or entering 4.
The block cursor will move to item 4.
- * Confirm your selection by pressing RETURN.
Item 4 in the menu list will be changed with the words METRIC and ENGLISH switched.
Port 1 RS-485 Connector Pin Definitions
- 1 + Battery (7 to 40 Vdc)
- 2 -Battery (Ground)
- 3 -Battery (Ground)
- 4 Data Link Minus
- 5 No Connection
- 6 RS-232C Receive Data
- 7 Data Link Plus
- 8 RS-232C Transmit
- 9 Software controlled, open collector output (sink 5ma @ 5Vdc)
- 2 -Battery (Ground)
Port 2 RS-232C Connector Pin Definitions
Service Program Module Installation
Service programs for use with the ECAP are provided through Caterpillar Dealers.
The ECAP will be delivered with utility programs for selecting Metric or English display units and routines for basic communications abilities.
When you receive a specific service program you will need to install it in the ECAP before it can be used.
When service program updates occur, you will be able to install them the same way.
1. Remove eight screws (1) holding cover panel (2) and lift it out of case (3).
2. Turn cover panel (2) over (invert) for access to the program module sockets on component side (4) of cover panel (2).
3. Locate an empty program module socket U45, U46 or U47 (5).
If you need to remove a Service Program Module from one of these sockets, grip it firmly by tabs (6) and lift it out of the socket with a slight rocking motion.
| NOTICE |
|---|
Use only finger pressure to remove a program module. The use of any mechanical tool can damage the program module and/or socket. The program modules, except U48, can be rearranged in the holding sockets, unless otherwise specified. |
NOTE: Make sure that the ECAP Executive Program, in the socket marked U48, is not disturbed or the ECAP will not operate correctly.
NOTE: The ECAP Executive Program should only be removed when it is being updated to a newer version.
4. Install service program module (7) into empty socket.
NOTE: The program modules and sockets are keyed so that they can only be installed in the correct (seated) position.
5. Reinstall cover panel (2) into carrying case (3) using eight screws (1).
Installing the 8C9800 PWM Signal Adapter
To use the PWM Sensor function from the Utility Functions menu, the 8C9800 PWM Signal Adapter must be installed.
3. Connect the remaining end of the 8T5277 Cable, or similar probe, to the system under test.
Utility Functions Screen Map
Explanation of Map Symbols
The drawings, shown below, are called screen maps. Each screen represents the LCD screen(s) displayed for each Utility Function.
Connecting lines between the screens show the path (direction) to follow to review and/or access another screen.
Lines that interconnect represent the branching path(s) to the items number on the menu.
The menus shown vary in the number of available screens, ranging from a minimum of one to a maximum of three.
The number of the items on each menu screen is shown near the corresponding screen.
Service
Units less than one year old will be repaired under warranty (except for abuse). The cost of out-of-warranty repairs will be charged to the owner.
Contact Caterpillar Service Technology Group for details.
Use the following list to direct troubleshooting questions and/or information on service and warranty.
Telephone - Toll Free Numbers
Outside Illinois 1-800-542-8665
Inside Illinois 1-800-541-8665
Canada 1-800-523-8665
U.S. Mail
Caterpillar Service Technology Group600 W. Washington St., LD180
East Peoria, IL 61630
United Parcel Service, Emery, etc.
Caterpillar Service Technology Group330 SW Adams St. LD180
Peoria, IL 61602
Telex
Number 404435
Attn: Caterpillar Service Technology Group